A buyer's guide to the top 10 smartphones

In the latest of our series of buyers' guides, we look at the pick of the bunch when it comes to smartphones.

By Maggie Holland, 1 Dec 2009 at 08:00

The Palm Pre was possibly one of the most hyped and anticipated devices of the year. Expectations were high and it had a lot to live up to.

Thankfully it didn’t disappoint. While some found its slide-out keypad a little on the cramped side, the dual hard key/touch screen approach worked well, combined with Palm’s innovative webOS.

With a host of features on offer including Palm Synergy, which unites historic communications silos so you can see at a glance what you’d said to someone over a variety of mediums, in addition to the App Catalog, we have high hopes for this device. Palm Pre

Samsung Galaxy (i7500)

The arrival of the Galaxy marked Samsung’s first foray into the world of Android. And what a valiant first attempt it was.

Boasting the same good looks as other Samsung stable mates, the Galaxy showed us what Android could do. Beefy memory, an AMOLED screen, a five megapixel camera and quality browsing experience add to the out-of-this-world mix. Samsung Galaxy (i7500)

Sony Xperia X2

Last, but not least, we have one of the latest arrivals on the scene. So new, in fact, we're waiting for a review unit in order to carry out full tests.

During our first look review, based on our short hands-on time with the Xperia X2, we were impressed at how things had moved on since the X1.

The transition from Windows Mobile 6.1 to 6.5 enhances the user experience, as does Sony Ericsson-specific touches. A classy design, large, responsive touch screen and spring-out keyboard make this device very appealing to workers who need to keep in touch with the world of work on the move without comprising on functionality. Sony Ericsson Xperia X2

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4 comments

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Very Distinct Omission!

Can the reviewers please inform us why on earth did the Samsung i8910 HD not get a mention? How smart has a smartphone got to be to impress you guys? Please try and provide an explanation to maintain any credibility. Yours respectfully S Holden

By grafix on Tuesday Dec 8

Omission

grafix: Thanks for your comment. We wouldn't disagree that the Samsung i8910 HD is a quality smartphone, but we had to make the cut somewhere on our top 10. Had we had an 'others to consider' section, this would have definitely made it in. That's something we'll certainly bear in mind for other buyers' guides. Thanks, Maggie

By Ip_maggie_hollan on Saturday Dec 12

What about Nokia N900 ?

I wonder where is Nokia N900 in your list?

By szabgab on Wednesday Mar 24

Apple comes out on top..

Of all the smartphones and 'iPhone killers', having used a few of these handsets, I think Apple still comes out on top by offering the most user friendly and sleek user interface. This aspect of the phone use makes a huge difference on day to day use.

By oxytechx on Tuesday Aug 10